'98 Challenger 1800 - good price???

[Raestlin]

I found a 1998 SeaDoo Challenger 1800 in really good shape. I love the look of it and am really excited about the twin 110hp engines. I'm mainly wanting the boat for pulling skiers and having fun.

It does not have a bimini top and I'm not sure if it has stainless impellers. The dealership is asking $7500 for it. From the ads I've seen, that seems like a bit much. Most '98-'99 models are selling around $6k (with a bimini).

What do you all think?
I don't want to pay too much for my first boat.

 

[Craigmri]

Raestlin,

Like anything else, a boat is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. Its irrellevent what the dealer is asking. You need to determine what you are willing to pay. Make an offer and walk away if you dont feel 100% about it.

In this economy the boating industrys sky is falling. You can almost name your price for a boat today. Remember this as you buy your first boat. Trust me whan I say that dealer needs to sell that boat more that you need to buy it.

Regardless, if you really like the boat be certain to have the boat inspected by a reputable shop and insist on a sea trial all prior to the transaction.

Craig

 

[Seadoopilot]

Raestlin,

Like anything else, a boat is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. Its irrellevent what the dealer is asking. You need to determine what you are willing to pay. Make an offer and walk away if you dont feel 100% about it.

In this economy the boating industrys sky is falling. You can almost name your price for a boat today. Remember this as you buy your first boat. Trust me whan I say that dealer needs to sell that boat more that you need to buy it.

Regardless, if you really like the boat be certain to have the boat inspected by a reputable shop and insist on a sea trial all prior to the transaction.

Craig

:agree:

Best advice I have heard . remember that the best deals are made while one party is walking away, some times the next day. If you dont have to start walking away you are likely paying more than you have to . $4,500 would be a good starting point . After the sea trial. Remember , everything little that is broken , every blemmish , every squeek , all detracts from the value of the boat . If you give them the asking price then you are not even playing the game , and let me tell you , If you give them their asking , the next joe that comes allong the asking will be a little higher . :coolgleam: